A 16-year-old boy from Chester, South Carolina, died on Sunday evening, May 4, 2026, after being shot on Pinckney Street. The victim was identified as Avery O’Brien West. Emergency responders arrived at the scene around 8:30 p.m. and found West with fatal injuries. He was pronounced dead at the location.
A second person was also wounded in the same incident and transported to a hospital for medical treatment. The South Carolina State Police have taken over the investigation and continue to actively gather evidence.
West was a teenager with strong ties to the Chester community. Friends and classmates described him as someone who carried himself with energy and optimism. His sudden death has left many residents in shock, particularly because of his young age. Neighbors on Pinckney Street reported hearing gunfire and seeing police vehicles arrive within minutes. Authorities have not released information about a suspect or a possible motive.
The family will receive visitors on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Pollard Funeral Home located at 115 York Street in Chester. A Celebration of Life service will take place on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at West Side Baptist Church on Rose Street. Mr. Chris Cassidy will speak at the service. The family has asked attendees to respect their privacy during the visitation and service.
The shooting has prompted discussions about safety in Chester’s residential neighborhoods. Local residents have expressed concern about gun violence and have called for increased police presence in the area. The South Carolina State Police have not announced whether any arrests have been made. The condition of the second wounded person has not been publicly released.
West’s death marks one of several violent incidents in Chester County in 2026. Community members have organized informal gatherings to pray for the family and to call for an end to youth violence. School officials have made grief counselors available to students who knew West. No further details about the circumstances leading up to the shooting have been provided by law enforcement.
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the South Carolina State Police or submit an anonymous tip through Chester County Crime Stoppers. The investigation remains active. Avery O’Brien West was 16 years old. He will be remembered by his family and friends as a vibrant young man whose life ended too soon.
